THE Iloilo City Government, through the Local Economic Investment and Promotions Office (Leipo), conducted a Packaging and Labeling Workshop to 40 Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) last July 3.

“The presentation of a product has a lot to do with attracting customers. We, Ilonggos, are very competitive when it comes to business. This workshop will surely help you learn the most recommended labeling and packaging strategies,” Mayor Jose Espinosa III said.

The training, done in partnership with Department of Science and Technology (DOST), aimed to educate micro-entrepreneurs about appropriate labeling and packaging and its advantages in marketing.

During the workshop, experts from DOST discussed the Basic Orientation on Awareness and Packaging, Product Packaging Technology Assessment, Mandatory Labeling Requirements in the Philippines.

“They have learned that polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles are not supposed to be used as containers for fresh fruit juices. The proper way of putting nutritional values and ingredients and other food information was also highlighted,” LEIPO head Ritchel Gavan said.

“We’re glad that the participants were very interactive. They were able to ask questions from the speakers. This is just a start for this batch. They’ll still have individual consultation with DOST for improvements of their products,” she added.

Products presented were yema, buko pie, atsara, sinamak, and fruit juices. The next training is set in September. (PR)